Ronaldo’s Future at Nassr in Jeopardy Amidst Transfer Controversy

Cristiano Ronaldo was notably absent from Al-Nassr’s lineup during their recent match against Riyadh, in protest against the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) decision to transfer Karim Benzema from Ittihad to Hilal. This transfer has not strengthened Al-Nassr’s squad in the same way, leading to increased tensions. According to CBS Sports, the Portuguese superstar has indicated he is prepared to leave both the club and the country in reaction to these developments.

Earlier reports suggested that Saudi officials anticipated Ronaldo would conclude his strike, especially since he has returned to training and is aware that Al-Nassr will face Ittihad on Friday. Ronaldo’s contract includes one of the most lucrative deals in football history, reportedly earning him £500,000 per day, along with a contractual obligation to be available for selection unless injured. However, it remains uncertain whether he will participate in the match against Ittihad as he contemplates his next steps.

Sources have indicated that Ronaldo feels “betrayed” and is seeking assurances regarding the club’s future direction if he decides to remain at Al-Nassr. His contract features a release clause valued at €50 million (£43 million), with speculation surrounding potential interest from his boyhood club, Sporting CP, as well as top clubs in Türkiye. Currently, Hilal leads the league by four points over Al-Nassr, and to add to Ronaldo’s frustration, Benzema made a remarkable debut by scoring a hat-trick in a decisive victory against Akhdoud.

Despite his high profile, Ronaldo has yet to secure a Saudi Pro League title since his arrival in the country. Former Premier League player and ex-England international Danny Murphy commented on Ronaldo’s actions, suggesting that he could contribute some of his earnings to help the club secure additional talent, labeling his behavior as “self-indulgent nonsense.”

Benzema, explaining his motivations for transferring to Hilal, emphasized his ambition to help the team win titles. He expressed satisfaction with his new environment, stating, “I have a lot of ambition. I will work; I will give everything on the pitch… It’s a great team with a great history; they won a lot of trophies. It’s like Real Madrid here in Asia.”

In response to Ronaldo’s protest, Hilal’s CEO, Esteve Calzado, suggested that inquiries about Ronaldo’s behavior should be directed to him and reaffirmed their focus on their own squad. Calzado remarked on the passionate rivalry in Saudi football, highlighting the excitement surrounding Benzema’s signing as a unique opportunity for the club.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen when Ronaldo will return to competitive play for Al-Nassr. Current updates indicate he may be available for the upcoming match against Al-Ittihad, but speculation persists regarding his absence from Jorge Jesus’s squad. All eyes will be on the team sheet on Friday to determine if Ronaldo is set to lead his team once again.